Supermarine Spitfire Mk I

Fighter aircraft By: Supermarine Origin: United Kingdom First Flight: 1936

About This Aircraft

The Supermarine Spitfire Mk I is one of the most celebrated aircraft in history. This example, K9942, is the oldest surviving Spitfire in the world. As a very early production model, it first flew in April 1938 and served with No. 72 Squadron at RAF Church Fenton. It embodies the classic features of the Mk I: the iconic elliptical wing designed by R.J. Mitchell, the powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, and an armament of eight .303 Browning machine guns. K9942 was involved in a landing accident in 1940 and was later used for training. Its survival makes it a priceless link to the earliest days of the Spitfire and the RAF pilots who flew it in the desperate air battles of 1940, including the Battle of Britain.

Museums Featuring This Aircraft

Exhibits can change. To avoid disappointment, before visiting, please check the museum website for up-to-date exhibit listings.